Forensic dental identification 165
records. Sources estimate that about one out of every six people in this coun-
try has a fingerprint record on file in the Integrated Automated Fingerprint
Identification System (IAFIS). Conversely, five of every six have no finger-
prints on file.^3 For those individuals fingerprint analysis and comparison will
be nonproductive. Postmortem fingerprints are collected whenever possible,
but comparison depends on the existence of prior fingerprint records. For
additional information on fingerprint analysis see Chapter 6.
9.1.2 Personal Items
Personal effects such as driver’s licenses, photographs, car keys, or mono-
grammed items are often useful clues in researching a decedent’s identity.
These should be used with caution, however, and should never be the sole
determinant in the identification process. For example, after a fiery motor
vehicle fatality, determining that the vehicle is registered to the same person
named on a driver’s license found at the scene can be a very valuable clue.
There are, however, documented cases where such deaths have been staged
for various fraudulent purposes. Names on items of clothing are clues but
not identification. After the World Trade Center attacks in 2001, firefighters
who perished were found to be wearing other firefighters’ turnout coats.
Identification errors could have been made from attempting to make positive
identifications using personal effects alone.
9.1.3 Tattoos and Scars
Tattoos and scars provide clues for forensic identification. Scars may be
from previous trauma or surgical intervention and can be further investi-
gated by the pathologist. Tattoos, if sufficiently unique, can be used as an
identifier of an individual or may indicate that individual belonged to a
particular group or gang. See Chapters 5 and 11 for information concern-
ing tattoos and scars and for methods for better imaging this evidence.
9.1.4 DNA and DNA Evidence
Analysis of DNA evidence for identifications has become a widely used
forensic technique and is considered by many to be the gold standard. The
ability of forensic investigators to obtain antemortem DNA samples even after
the death of an individual is a distinct advantage for DNA analysis. A swab
from a close relative, stored blood, or material from the decedent’s hairbrush
or toothbrush may provide adequate comparison material. DNA profiles of
decedents can be compared to various databases (see Chapter 7). There are
limitations for all forms of identification, and for DNA the major limitations
are the time required and the costs involved, which may rapidly exceed the